Drawing on the views of more than 900 young housing professionals across the UK, most of who work in social housing, Voices of the Future is the largest study of its kind. It provides invaluable insights into how the next generation experiences their work, sees their future, and envisions a stronger, fairer housing sector.

Emma Gilbank, chair of CIH Futures, said: “We are proud to launch the CIH Futures survey findings, a vital piece of work that for the first time gives young housing professionals a collective voice in shaping the future of our sector.”

The findings reaffirm the passion that drives the early career professionals. Young people working in housing are highly motivated by social purpose, committed to supporting residents and communities, and eager to build long, meaningful careers. However, the research also highlights areas where the sector must do more – including improving career visibility, strengthening progression pathways, investing in leadership support and prioritising wellbeing.

Commenting on the recommendations, Emma added: “The recommendations are practical and actionable, and we urge organisations and sector leaders to consider them to ensure the next generation is supported and empowered. Our thanks go to Altair for delivering this research and to our sponsors for making this important report possible.”

The launch of Voices of the Future marks a significant step in understanding and championing the next generation of housing professionals, and in ensuring the sector remains a place where they can grow, lead and thrive.

Speaking at the online launch webinar, CIH’s director of membership and professional development, Sarah Dunkerley, welcomed the report, noting that too many young people still “fall into” housing by chance rather than by choice, and can encounter avoidable barriers once in the sector.

She said: “This report by CIH Futures confirms what we already know: today’s early career professionals are passionate about making a difference. Their commitment to social purpose, residents and communities is inspiring – and it’s clear they want to build lasting careers in our sector.

“However, the findings also make clear that more must be done to support them. Too many young professionals ‘fall into’ housing by chance rather than choice, and once here, can face barriers around visibility, progression, leadership support and wellbeing.

“As the professional body for housing, CIH is committed to working with employers, members, and partners to ensure that housing is a sector where every professional can thrive.”

CIH said the report launch strengthens the case for its ongoing campaigns to support early-career talent. Choose Housing – introduced by former CIH President Elly Hoult – aims to raise awareness of housing as a career of choice for all backgrounds. Rooted in Resilience, the new campaign led by CIH President Julie Haydon, focuses on building the wellbeing culture, leadership strength and growth mindset the sector needs.

Over the coming months, the organisation has pledged to strengthen early-career engagement through CIH Futures and the ongoing Choose Housing campaign, and expand networking and mentoring opportunities, including online communities and peer-to-peer support for young professionals.

CIH will also work with employers and members, as part of the Rooted in Resilience campaign, to help build a sector that values wellbeing, empowers talent and celebrates the passion that makes housing such a special profession, and will continue to amplify the voices of young professionals, ensuring they help shape the sector’s future through our events, campaigns and policy work.

The report concludes that for the sector, supporting young housing professionals is an investment in the future of housing – and that the legacy of today’s leaders will be defined by who follows in their footsteps.